Best Bars & Nightlife in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa
1. The Old Bank Restaurant & Pub
A historic building transformed into a popular pub and restaurant, offering a unique blend of traditional British cuisine and local flavors.
- Historic Atmosphere: Former East London Bank building adds an air of nostalgia
- Live Music: Regular live music performances create a lively and entertaining atmosphere
- Extensive Drink Selection: Wide range of local and international beers, wines, and spirits
2. The Venue
A bustling live music venue offering a diverse lineup of local and international acts, alongside delicious pub grub.
- Live Music Hub: Hosts popular local and touring bands across various genres
- Diverse Food Menu: Offers a range of dishes catering to different tastes and dietary needs
- Vibrant Atmosphere: A lively, energetic space perfect for socializing and dancing
3. The Red HQ
A trendy speakeasy-style bar hidden in an unassuming building, serving creative cocktails and a relaxed vibe.
- Speakeasy Ambiance: Enter through a nondescript door to discover this secret hideaway
- Craft Cocktails: Inventive cocktail menu showcases local and international spirits
- Intimate Setting: Small, cozy space fosters a sense of camaraderie and intimacy
4. The Meridian Wine Bar
A sophisticated wine bar with an extensive collection of South African wines, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
- Wide Selection of Local Wines: More than 80 local and international wines available
- Tasting Flights: Sample various wines in curated flights to discover new favorites
- Elegant Setting: Classy, sophisticated environment for a refined evening out
5. The Bunker
An underground music venue with a focus on supporting local and up-and-coming artists, featuring live DJ sets and dance nights.
- Underground Music Scene: Showcases emerging talent and supports the local music community
- Dance Floor: Spacious dance area for letting loose and dancing the night away
- Affordable Drinks: Reasonably priced drinks that won't break the bank
6. The Eastern Beach Bar
A beachfront bar with stunning ocean views, serving refreshing cocktails and light bites during the day.
- Ocean Views: Unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean make for a breathtaking setting
- Daytime Vibe: Perfect spot for enjoying a casual daytime drink and soaking up the sun
- Seafood Menu: Fresh, locally sourced seafood options to complement your beach experience
7. The Beacon Bar & Grill
A sleek rooftop bar and grill offering panoramic city views, modern cuisine, and creative cocktails.
- Rooftop Views: Unparalleled vistas of East London's skyline and the sea
- Modern Cuisine: Refined dishes that showcase the best of contemporary East London cuisine
- Stylish Atmosphere: Chic, sophisticated space perfect for date night or a special occasion
8. The Settlers Monument Pub
A lively sports pub with multiple screens showing live games and events, along with a wide range of beers.
- Sports Focus: Multiple screens to catch all the latest sporting action
- Beer Selection: Wide variety of local and international beers on tap
- Crowd Atmosphere: Lively, energetic environment for watching games with fellow fans
9. The Cow and Milk
A quaint little pub serving hearty comfort food and a great selection of local beers.
- Comfort Food: Traditional British dishes like fish and chips, burgers, and pies
- Local Beers: Rotating selection of local brews on tap
- Cozy Atmosphere: Warm, inviting space to relax and unwind after a long day
10. The East London Brewing Co.
A microbrewery specializing in small-batch craft beers, with a taproom offering tastings and tours.
- Craft Beer: Rotating selection of unique, flavorful brews
- Tasting Room: Sample beers directly from the source
- Brewery Tours: Learn about the brewing process and the stories behind each beer
11. The Buffalo Bar
A rock 'n' roll-themed bar with live music events, a varied drinks menu, and American-inspired cuisine.
- Live Music: Regular gigs from local and touring rock acts
- American Cuisine: Classic dishes like burgers, wings, and nachos
- Rock 'n' Roll Atmosphere: Decorated with memorabilia and offering a lively, energetic vibe
12. The Lighthouse
A charming waterside bar with picturesque views, serving a variety of drinks and light bites.
- Waterfront Setting: Located on the edge of the Buffalo River for stunning views
- Seafood Menu: Fresh seafood dishes that make the most of East London's coastal location
- Cozy Atmosphere: Relaxed, comfortable space perfect for unwinding with a drink
13. The Beerhouse
A beer-focused bar offering an impressive selection of South African and international beers.
- Extensive Beer Menu: More than 100 different beers to choose from
- Tasting Paddles: Sample a variety of beers with tasting paddles
- Beer Knowledge: Knowledgeable staff to guide you through the beer selection
14. The Hackney Tavern
A traditional British pub offering a warm welcome, hearty food, and a great selection of beers.
- Traditional Pub Atmosphere: Warm, inviting space that feels like stepping into a local pub back home
- Hearty Food: Classic British dishes like shepherd's pie, bangers and mash, and fish and chips
- Beer Selection: A rotating selection of local and international beers on tap
15. The Beach Café
A casual beachfront café serving refreshments and light meals during the day.
- Beachside Location: Conveniently located on East London's popular beaches
- Daytime Vibe: Perfect for a quick bite or drink while soaking up the sun
- Affordable Prices: Reasonably priced menu to suit any budget